Fraternal Programs > Volunteer Excellence Award > Youth/Young Adult - 2006 > Adam Kephart
Youth/Young Adult - 2006

Adam Kephart
Rochester, MN
Rochester MN Chapter #31207

In his role as youth director of the Rochester MN Chapter of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Adam Kephart has many opportunities to influence others. Perhaps the most touching example of how his actions touch other lives was upon the death of classmate and band member, Kevin Langlie. After Kevin’s death, the John Marshall High School band commissioned a composer to write a song about Kevin’s life and accomplishments. A large sum was needed to do this and Adam saw the opportunity to raise funds and spread awareness of Thrivent Financial in his community. The money was raised and the piece was composed and presented at a spring concert. It is now being published nationally.

Adam is also active in his congregation, where he occasionally makes announcements to inform the church members of the Thrivent Financial activities available to them. In his youth group at church, Adam is a Bible study leader for a group that meets each week during the school year. He also traveled to Thunder Bay, Ontario, for a Youth Works! mission trip with the youth group to help beautify grounds and restore pews. As leader of the youth group, Adam helped bring together adults and youth from the Rochester area to take part in this mission trip.

In addition, Adam has spent many hours in community service. At school, he raised money for Christmas Anonymous by working with fellow students to approach companies in the community to contribute to the school’s fund-raiser. As vice president for the National Honor Society of John Marshall High School, Adam planned and participated in projects that benefited the surrounding community. He also served as section leader in the school’s marching band, working with fellow students to help them memorize the show music and marching drill for half-time shows. As an element leader in the Civil Air Patrol last year, Adam helped run meetings and drill instruction for cadets. And last but not least, as an avid Ultimate Frisbee enthusiast, Adam has worked with staff at John Marshall High School to continue an Intramural Frisbee League for students.